Modular Fluid Distributor Assembly for Compact Separation Unit Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separation units in bioprocess engineering require extensive space, are unwieldy, and suffer from undesirable backmixing and intermediate storage due to inflexible fluid connections, which complicates setup and handling.
Innovation Solution
A distributor assembly with a fluid distributor device and connecting elements that allow selective fluid communication and rigid mechanical connections between units, using retaining elements and mounting slots for secure, standardized connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional hoses and piping are used to interconnect separation units, then fluid connections can be established, but the arrangement requires extensive space and becomes unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor assembly is divided into separate functional components: a distributor body with multiple ports, connecting elements for fluid communication, and retaining elements for mechanical connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled in a compact configuration, reducing overall space requirements while maintaining ease of assembly and operation.
2Productivity
If conventional hoses and piping are used for fluid connections, then connections can be established, but large dead spaces are created that cause backmixing and reduce product yield
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the intermediate storage function from the fluid connection system. By integrating direct fluid communication pathways within the distributor assembly itself, the system removes the need for separate holding sections or dead spaces that would otherwise be required in conventional hose-based connections, thereby preventing backmixing and maximizing product yield.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid connections are used, then separation units can be connected, but the arrangement is inflexible and requires cumbersome intermediate storage
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor assembly is designed as a universal interface that combines multiple functions: fluid distribution, mechanical connection, and positioning alignment. The standardized ports and connecting elements can accommodate various separation units and functional devices, providing flexibility and adaptability while simplifying setup through a unified connection system that eliminates the need for different intermediate storage solutions.
4Reliability
If special coupling devices with retaining elements are used, then secure connections can be established, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the retaining element and connecting element into a single integrated component that is formed as one piece during manufacturing. This combination maintains secure mechanical connection and reliable fluid sealing while simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be produced, assembled, and quality-checked, thereby lowering overall manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A distributor assembly, which is provided in particular for a separation unit of a modular process device arrangement, including a fluid distributor device having a plurality of fluid ports, wherein the fluid distributor device can selectively establish and block fluid communications between the fluid ports. The distributor assembly further includes a connecting element and a retaining element. The connecting element is adapted to be attached to one of the fluid ports, and the distributor assembly includes an associated mounting slot at the fluid port. The mounting slot is adapted to the shape of the retaining element such that the retaining element can be inserted into the mounting slot up to a defined retaining position, in which the retaining element engages the connecting element and fixes it in place.